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Between moral commitment and a desire to serve, more and more young people are turning to the army. The voluntary national service, which will be implemented in September, is attracting more candidates than available positions, despite mixed opinions on the international context and the prospect of military engagement.
Flag bearer at 22 years old, Maddy Pontoizeau near Poitiers takes this role to heart. For her, it’s a form of commitment, she says: “We must not forget that the young people who went to fight back then were our age. It is very important to remember that they left people behind.”
Paying tribute to past generations, but also committing to the army for the future. Elise Laurent, a student from Bourg-en-Bresse (Ain), is already thinking about it, she confesses: “In today’s world where tensions are rising, people need to feel ready to fight for their nation and for themselves in general.”
Is there a resurgence of patriotism among young people? In any case, there is a strong interest in the voluntary national service that will be deployed in September. The Army has received more applications than needed: 2,400 for only 1,800 places available. Like 20-year-old Julien Gonzalez, who hopes to be selected: “It’s a long-standing project. I wanted to join the national police force. So I failed the entrance exam twice. I decided to try the national service.”
If selected, he will learn, for example, how to use drones or the Caesar cannon alongside committed soldiers. Lieutenant Colonel Mathieu Brulais, head of the Army’s recruitment marketing department, explains: “There is a real sense of purpose in this commitment that is not just to fill ranks. There is a real mission at the end of this national service.”
Even though 56% of 18-24 year olds approve of this new national service format, others, like some high school students, are more hesitant in light of the international context. One of them says: “I don’t think I have the courage to join the army. Fighting, actually going to war, doesn’t really appeal to me much.” Another adds: “It has never really crossed my mind. It’s not a profession that interests me a lot, but I respect the people who do this job.”
By July 1st, a total of 3,000 young volunteers from all branches of the military will be definitively selected to start their service.
